Introduction
The budget wireless earbuds market in India is booming, with brands like boAt, Noise, Oppo, and Redmi all offering feature-packed options at wallet-friendly prices. Enter the OnePlus Nord Buds 3R, launched at ₹1,799, aiming to win over buyers with solid audio performance and brand trust. But here’s the big question: are these budget TWS earbuds worth it, especially if audio quality and reliability are your top priorities? Let’s break it down.
Design and Build: Simple Yet Functional
- Weight: 4.5g (each bud), 38.6g (case)
- Water & Dust Resistance: IP55 (earbuds only)
- Colors: Aura Blue, Ash Black
OnePlus has moved away from its earlier pebble-shaped case design and opted for a boxier, LEGO-inspired look with the Nord Buds 3R. The matte finish makes the case resistant to fingerprints, while its 38.6g weight keeps it pocket-friendly.
The earbuds themselves are lightweight (4.5g each), come with multiple silicone tip sizes, and fit snugly in the ear—even during workouts. Plus, the IP55 rating adds durability, making them sweat- and splash-resistant. However, only the earbuds carry this protection, not the case.
The lack of a dedicated pairing button may puzzle first-time users, but the touch controls on the stems are intuitive once you get the hang of them.
App Support and Features: Straightforward Setup
- Driver Size: 12.4mm Dynamic Driver
- App Support: HeyMelody (Android & iOS)
- Controls: Tap gestures
- Latency: Up to 47ms
If you’re using a OnePlus phone, you can tweak all the features directly through Bluetooth settings. For non-OnePlus users, the HeyMelody app offers customization across both Android and iOS.
The earbuds also support dual-device connectivity and promise low latency for smoother gaming and video experiences. However, they miss out on wear detection, a feature that has become standard even in budget TWS models.
Audio Performance: Bass Takes the Spotlight
- Codec Support: AAC, SBC
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4
When it comes to sound, the OnePlus Nord Buds 3R are all about bass. Low frequencies hit hard, which is great for EDM, hip-hop, and other bass-heavy tracks. But for those who prefer balanced audio, the mids and vocals can sometimes feel overshadowed—especially at higher volumes.
Classics like Bohemian Rhapsody or Hotel California sound less crisp due to the overpowering bass tuning. Additionally, the lack of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) means ambient sounds creep in, limiting immersion in noisy environments.
For calls, performance is decent indoors thanks to AI-based noise reduction. But in busier places like markets or crowded streets, clarity takes a hit.
Battery Life: The Real Highlight
- Earbuds: 58mAh each
- Case: 560mAh
- Claimed Playback: 12 hours (earbuds), up to 48 hours with case
Here’s where the Nord Buds 3R truly shine—battery life. A single charge easily delivers 11–12 hours of playback, while the charging case extends usage up to nearly 48 hours. Even better, a 10-minute quick charge provides up to 8 hours of playtime, making them extremely convenient for busy users.
Verdict: Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord Buds 3R?
The OnePlus Nord Buds 3R focus on delivering the essentials: solid battery life, comfortable fit, and strong bass-heavy audio—all at an affordable price. However, they’re not perfect. The lack of ANC and wear detection, along with an audio profile that leans heavily toward bass, may not appeal to everyone.
Buy them if you want:
- Long-lasting battery performance
- Reliable OnePlus brand quality
- A workout-friendly, splash-resistant design
- Punchy bass for upbeat music
Skip them if you want:
- Balanced audio with crisp vocals
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for daily commutes
- Premium-feeling design
Bottom Line: The OnePlus Nord Buds 3R are a value-for-money choice for casual listeners who enjoy bass-heavy tracks and need dependable battery life. Audiophiles and frequent commuters, however, may want to explore alternatives with better sound balance and ANC.
